Effectiveness of Different Types of Core Decompression in Early-Stage Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is a progressive disorder leading to femoral head collapse and early disability, often affecting young adults. Core decompression (CD) is the most established hip-preserving treatment for early-stage disease, yet the comparative benefits of biological and structural augmentation remain uncertain.

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis, registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251108396), evaluated 14 studies encompassing 1210 patients treated with CD alone or CD combined with biological (e.g., platelet-rich plasma, mesenchymal stem cells, bone marrow aspirate concentrate) or structural (e.g., bone grafting, fibular support) augmentation.

RESULTS

Pooled random-effects models demonstrated that biological augmentation yielded significant improvements in Harris Hip Score and pain reduction (VAS) up to 24 months, with early peaks and subsequent stabilization, whereas structural augmentation showed no functional advantage at any time point. Radiological progression and conversion to total hip arthroplasty were not significantly reduced, though long-term trends favored biologically augmented CD.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, biological augmentation provides durable functional and symptomatic benefits in early-stage osteonecrosis, supporting its use as a first-line adjunct to CD, while structural augmentation appears less consistent and warrants further evaluation through large, standardized trials.